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Kauri Mountain Awarua Rocks

Look, we're not going to lie. Kauri Mountain Awarua Rocks isn't the Poor Knights' showstopper. It doesn’t have the archways or the deep, dark caves. What it does have, however, is a classic slice of New Zealand’s rocky coastline underwater, and sometimes that's exactly what you want. It's a short jaunt from Dive Now if you're keen for a shore entry down Kauri Mountain Road. The maximum depth sits at about 11 metres, making it a great spot for a relaxed potter. We've spent hours here just watching the smaller stuff. The kelp sways, and in among the holdfasts, you’ll spot at least three kinds of triplefins – the Yellow-and-black, Longfinned, and those tiny Spotted Robust ones. We often see rig and dory ghosting through, and if you’re lucky, a black stingray or even a sleepy leopard seal might be tucked away. Visibility averages 13 metres, so it’s usually clear enough to appreciate the encrusting life that carpets the rocks. It's a proper kiwi kelpy dive, perfect for photographers who love macro or anyone who just wants to chill out and explore without the pressure of a big-name site.